hardbitten

UK: ˌhɑːdˈbɪtən | US: ˌhɑːrdˈbɪtən

Definition

  1. adj. toughened by experience; stubbornly resilient

  2. adj. (of a person) unyielding or cynical due to hardship

Structure
hard <firm, unyielding>bitten <affected by biting (metaphor for hardship)>
Etymology

The term "hardbitten" combines "hard," from Old English "heard" (solid, severe), and "bitten," the past participle of "bite." Originally literal (e.g., a horse hardened by the bit), it evolved metaphorically to describe people toughened by adversity. The imagery suggests enduring repeated "bites" of hardship, leaving one resilient but unyielding.

Examples

  1. The hardbitten detective refused to give up on the cold case.

  2. Her hardbitten attitude stemmed from years of financial struggle.

  3. The soldiers were hardbitten after months at the front.

  4. His hardbitten realism contrasted with her optimism.

  5. A hardbitten journalist, she questioned every official statement.